Peace Corps Prep
Undergraduate
About:
Want to make a difference in the world? PLU’s Peace Corps Prep program is both a minor and certificate you can earn while working on your degree, preparing you for international volunteer work and service-oriented careers. This program is designed to help you develop skills and competencies for service in the Peace Corps, a U.S. government organization that sends U.S. citizens abroad to volunteer for two-year terms in over 60 countries.
You’ll explore what it means to live, serve, and learn in diverse communities, and build skills through hands-on experience in leadership, language, and intercultural understanding — the same kinds of things the Peace Corps looks for when recruiting volunteers. While finishing this certificate doesn’t guarantee a Peace Corps spot, it gives you an edge (you don’t have to serve in the Peace Corps to be part of our program).
The Peace Corps Prep program is an exciting chance to gain knowledge and skills to help prepare you for service and meaningful engagement in a globally connected world.
Skills you'll gain from this program:
- Sector-Specific Knowledge & Experience — Complete three courses and at least 50 hours of hands-on work in your chosen sector to build real-world expertise that directly prepares you for service.
- Professional & Leadership Development — Strengthen your resume, practice interview skills, and gain leadership experience that sets you apart in service and career opportunities.
- Intercultural Competence — Learn to navigate cultural differences and build strong relationships through three courses focused on diversity and world cultures.
- Foreign Language Proficiency — Take at least one language course (or show equivalent proficiency) so you’re ready to communicate effectively in diverse communities.
Countries Peace Corps Prep alums have served in:
- Armenia
- Botswana
- Colombia
- Ethiopia
- Georgia
- Guatemala
- Guinea
- Mongolia
- Mozambique
- Timor-Leste
- Senegal
- Panama
- Peru
- Uganda
- Ukraine
Jobs that PCP alums have had:
- Field Archeologist with Idaho Bureau of Land Management
- Research Assistant, Washington State University
- Grant Writer, Multicare
- Clinical Social Worker, University of Washington Medicine
- Climate Adaptation Negotiator, U.S. State Department
- Social Worker, Washington High School
It’s FREE to apply to PLU
When you're ready, we're here. Apply now and fulfill your potential!
Get StartedHands-on Experience
All Peace Corps Prep students gain at least 50 hours of practical experience tied to their Peace Corps focus area – Education, Health, Environment, Agriculture, Youth in Development, or Community Economic Development.
More than 260 Lutes have served in the Peace Corps!
Career Ready
PLU’s Alumni & Student Connections team will support you with resume building and interview practice throughout your Peace Corps Prep journey.
